LOOKING UNTO JESUS

OVERVIEW

This essay explores the verse "Looking unto Jesus the Author and finisher of our Faith" and its significance for Christians who encounter challenges and witness the shortcomings of more seasoned believers. The essay highlights the following key points:

1. Introduction: Introduces the topic of new Christians' initial enthusiasm and subsequent questioning as they encounter the imperfections of older believers and inconsistencies within the Church.

2. Understanding Jesus as the Author of Our Faith: Explains that Jesus is the originator and source of our belief in Him, having laid the foundation of Christianity through His life, death, and resurrection.

3. Recognizing Jesus as the Finisher of Our Faith: Emphasizes that Jesus not only initiates our faith but also sustains and brings it to completion, being the culmination or perfecter of our faith.

4. The Call to Look Unto Jesus: Encourages believers to direct their attention, focus, and trust toward Jesus, acknowledging His lordship, studying His teachings, and modeling their lives after His example.

5. Overcoming Challenges through Jesus: Addresses the challenges and disillusionment that may arise when believers witness the shortcomings of other Christians or encounter similar issues in different church communities. It emphasizes the importance of relying on Jesus rather than solely on the actions or behavior of others.

6. Conclusion: Summarizes the key points and reinforces the importance of looking unto Jesus as the Author and Finisher of our faith, finding strength, guidance, and endurance in Him to navigate the complexities of the spiritual journey and grow in relationship with God.

Introduction:

The journey of faith is filled with various experiences and challenges. Many new Christians exhibit great enthusiasm, actively participating in church services, attending gatherings, and engaging in outreach activities. However, as they encounter the imperfections of seasoned believers or witness inconsistencies within the Church, doubts may arise, leading to questioning and, in some cases, even backsliding.

In such moments, it is crucial to revisit the central message of the Bible and refocus on the person of Jesus Christ, who is described as the "Author and Finisher of our Faith." This essay aims to explore the significance of this verse and its implications for the life of Christians.

Understanding Jesus as the Author of Our Faith:

When the Bible refers to Jesus as the "Author of our Faith," it conveys the idea that He is the originator, the initiator, and the source of our belief in Him. It is through His life, death, and resurrection that the foundation of Christianity was laid.

Jesus established a new covenant with humanity, offering salvation and eternal life to all who place their trust in Him. He is the embodiment of God's love and grace, providing a way for believers to have a personal relationship with their Creator.

Recognizing Jesus as the Finisher of Our Faith:

The term "Finisher" signifies that Jesus is not only the beginning but also the culmination or perfecter of our faith. He not only initiates our journey of faith but also sustains and brings it to completion. In a world filled with uncertainties and challenges, it is easy for believers to become disillusioned by the actions and behaviors of those around them.

However, the flaws and shortcomings of individuals do not negate the truth and reliability of Jesus. Instead of fixating on the imperfections of others, believers are called to fix their eyes on Jesus, the perfecter of their faith.

The Call to Look Unto Jesus:

The verse "Looking unto Jesus" emphasizes the need for believers to direct their attention, focus, and trust toward Jesus. This act of looking unto Him involves acknowledging His lordship, studying His teachings, and modeling one's life after His example. By consistently turning to Jesus, Christians can find strength, guidance, and comfort amidst the imperfections and disappointments they may encounter within the Church.

Overcoming Challenges through Jesus:

When new believers witness the shortcomings of more experienced Christians or encounter similar issues in different church communities, it can lead to disillusionment and a crisis of faith. However, understanding Jesus as the Author and Finisher of their faith can help them navigate these challenges.

Jesus never promised that the path of faith would be easy or free from difficulties. Instead, He assured His followers of His presence and promised to be with them through every trial and tribulation. By placing their trust in Jesus rather than solely relying on the actions or behavior of other believers, individuals can overcome these obstacles and grow in their faith.

Conclusion:

As Christians embark on their journey of faith, it is common for them to encounter challenges and witness the shortcomings of others. However, rather than allowing these experiences to cause doubt or disillusionment, believers are encouraged to fix their eyes on Jesus, the Author, and Finisher of their faith.

Jesus serves as the foundation and culmination of our faith, providing the ultimate example of love, grace, and forgiveness. By consistently looking unto Him, believers can find the strength, guidance, and endurance to navigate the complexities of their spiritual journey, ultimately growing in their relationship with God and serving as a positive influence within the Church and the world.

POSTSCRIPT

"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." - 2 Peter 3:18

In light of the challenges and doubts that can arise when witnessing the shortcomings of other believers, it is crucial to remember the call to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This growth comes from continually looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, as the ultimate source of guidance and wisdom.

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." - Romans 12:2

As we encounter the imperfections and inconsistencies within the Church, it is essential not to conform to the pattern of the world by becoming disheartened or disillusioned. Instead, we are called to be transformed by renewing our minds through a steadfast focus on Jesus. By fixing our eyes on Him, we can maintain our faith and find renewed strength to navigate any challenges that may arise.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." - Philippians 4:13

When faced with doubts, questioning, or disappointments within the faith community, let us hold onto the assurance that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. By keeping our focus on Jesus, we tap into His limitless power and find the courage to overcome any challenges or obstacles that may come our way.

"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin." - Hebrews 4:15

"Looking to Jesus, the founder, and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before he endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." - Hebrews 12:2

"I lift my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth." - Psalm 121:1-2

"Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always." - 1 Chronicles 16:11

"Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed." - Psalm 34:5

"Turn to me and be saved, all the ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other." - Isaiah 45:22

"Look to yourselves, that we may not lose what we have worked for, but may win a full reward." - 2 John 1:8

"Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you." - Proverbs 4:25

"Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!" - 1 Chronicles 16:11

"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." - Matthew 6:33

"Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?" - Matthew 6:26

"And Jesus said to him, 'If you can! All things are possible for one who believes.'" - Mark 9:23

"And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, 'You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.'" - Mark 10:21

These verses highlight the importance of looking to God, seeking His presence, and fixing our eyes on Jesus for strength, salvation, guidance, and transformation in our faith journey.

In our moments of doubt and questioning, let us remember that Jesus, our high priest, fully understands our weaknesses and temptations. He has experienced the struggles we face but remained sinless. Therefore, we can trust in His understanding, His empathy, and His ability to guide us through the complexities of our faith journey.

By anchoring ourselves in these biblical truths and continuously looking unto Jesus, we can find the strength, guidance, and transformation necessary to navigate the challenges we encounter within the Church. Let us remember that He is the source of our faith, the perfecter of our walk, and the one who empowers us to grow in grace, knowledge, and unwavering commitment to Him.

May the Lord bless you!

Written by: John U. Ordillo